UNILAG Student Gives Emotional Court Testimony About Alleged Sexual Assault
A 20-year-old student from the University of Lagos has provided a detailed and emotional testimony in court, alleging that a senior lecturer sexually assaulted her inside his office on campus. The case is currently being heard at the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, with Justice Oyindamola Ogala presiding over the proceedings.
Lecturer Faces Two-Count Charge in Sexual Assault Case
The accused lecturer, identified as Samuel Obinna Ojogbo, aged 53, is standing trial on a two-count charge filed by the state government. The charges specifically relate to sexual assault and associated offenses. During the court session on Wednesday, April 15, the student appeared as the first prosecution witness, offering a comprehensive account of the alleged incident that occurred on August 22, 2025.
The student began her testimony by formally identifying herself to the court, stating clearly, "I am a student of the University of Lagos." She then proceeded to describe the circumstances that led to the alleged assault, explaining that it began during an examination period when the lecturer initially spoke to her and subsequently invited her to visit his office after the exam.
Detailed Account of Office Encounter and Alleged Assault
According to her testimony, she attempted to meet with the lecturer twice following the initial invitation but found him unavailable on both occasions. The situation escalated on the day of the alleged incident when she had just completed another exam and was returning to her hostel. She reported seeing the lecturer, who signaled for her to wait, after which she followed him to his office.
The student provided specific details about the office environment, noting, "His office is underground. There is no window and no secretary." She further testified that two other students briefly entered the office but were asked to leave by the lecturer, who claimed they were interrupting him.
After the visitors departed, the student stated that she was instructed to close the door. As she moved to comply, she alleged that she was pushed and sexually assaulted inside the office. Following the incident, she told the court that the lecturer made promises regarding her academic progress and took possession of her exam documents while also obtaining her phone number.
Immediate Aftermath and Reporting Process
The student described leaving the office in a state of distress, immediately informing a friend about what had occurred. Together, they decided to report the matter through proper channels. Initially, the issue was raised within the academic department, where a lecturer contacted her uncle, who also works at the university. They subsequently met with the Head of Department.
During this meeting, the student recounted that the HOD questioned the lack of evidence, asking, "Where is the evidence, and why don't I record with my phone?" She also testified that the lecturer denied the allegations when confronted directly. The student expressed distress at being advised to exercise caution around lecturers in private spaces, while her family insisted that the matter should not be ignored.
The case was subsequently escalated to the university's SERVICOM unit and medical center. Later, she reported the incident to the state's Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, which referred her to the police. Medical evaluation was conducted, and the investigation was transferred to the Gender Unit of the police for further examination.
Court Proceedings and Adjournment
The court was also informed that after the report was officially filed, attempts were made by the defendant's family and associates to arrange a private meeting regarding the matter. Justice Ogala has adjourned the case to April 27 for the cross-examination of the witness, allowing the defense to question the student's testimony.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about safety and accountability within educational institutions, particularly regarding student-staff interactions. The detailed testimony provides insight into the challenges students may face when reporting serious allegations and the legal processes that follow such reports.
